The end is near...

The end of the year is coming, and it is only fourteen hours away. For most of us, as the preparations come, it is a time of reflection. It is also a time for mixed emotions. We are glad we are living, aware and present at the moment to celebrate it. But we are aware that that is only a hope, a benefit we mere mortals enjoy because it can be withdrawn from us at any time. We remember those near us who aren't with us anymore.

While we celebrate, we cannot be oblivious to the fact that many others have nothing to celebrate. Maybe they are very ill, unjustly imprisoned, engulfed in problems or just don't have anything to put on the plate tonight.

The world is a potpourri of circumstances, good and bad. We may be surrounded by people and yet feel alone. Perhaps we don't feel alone, but how many of those around us will be present through thick and thin? Or are they here only while we are convenient to them? In any case, family is usually your best choice, but not all families are made the same. Sometimes our true friends are far away.

In any case, I hope for a great 2025 full of beautiful things for all well-intentioned creatures on earth. May we be happy and prosper. May we be in peace and go out to do our jobs without causing harm to anybody. Let the divine powers keep us out of reach of those whose only pleasure in life is to harm others.

And last, but not least, a Haiku I just composed for this occasion:

The Autumn is gone,

Weaving memories and dreams;

A Happy New Year!

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